Skiing is a rather expensive sport. From the gears to the apparel, it can cost you a huge sum. But you don’t want to settle just for something that your wallet can afford right? Ski jackets should be equipped with the necessary materials that can protect you from the frigid cold weather, moisture, snow, and rain
And the best women’s ski jackets will help you feel comfortable and dry. So you can focus on what’s more important which is the game. We are listing down several affordable options and premium and high-end designs. Yes, we have something for everyone!
So hover through our review to find the best one that suits your needs.
Best Women’s Ski Jackets (A Product Review)
We have curated a list of the best ski jackets for women. These brands will help you be comfortable and maintain your focus on the slopes and country walks. You might even be able to use it at home.
1. Arc’teryx Women’s Sentinel LT – Best Stylish
The countryside and slopes are your runaways. This design can keep you fashionably comfortable
This stylish and functional jacket is comprised of 3 layers of fabric that can keep you comfortable in the cold outdoors
This Sentinel LT women’s jacket is made from a durable fabric. It’s heavy-duty yet it’s lightweight. It’s made from GORE-TEX 3L fabric that makes you last in the slopes and countryside. So you can maintain focus on what you have to do. The cold won’t even bother you.
In addition, the lining is made from a circular-knit 100% nylon backer which ensures that the jacket stays comfortable on the skin. It also improves mobility. In addition, it’s also waterproof and breathable.
So you can stay warm without overheating. You can use it at midday when it’s not yet too cold. And you can wear the same jacket when dawn comes and the breeze becomes cooler. That’s why the sentinel lt can keep you most comfortable when you’re skiing, trekking, all-mountain, or freerides.
This sentinel lt ski jacket is functional and stylish as well. Everyone would love the two-tone shade of this jacket. Also, it has a longer fit compared to other brands. It also has pit zips that will make wearing a backpack possible
Features
- N80p GORE-TEX Nylon Face Fabric for the face fabric
- GORE-TEX 3L used for the membrane
- Available in 3 types of fit: tall collar, straight hem, and regular fit
- Comes with 2 hand pockets, 2 chest pockets, an internal laminated pocket with zip, and an internal dump pocket
- Has watertight pit zippers and angled pit zippers
- Helmet-compatible hood
- Die-cut velcro cuff adjuster
- Limited lifetime warranty
- Has an integrated powder skirt
Pros
- Fashionable
- Highly breathable
- Durable yet lightweight fabric
- Water-resistant
Cons
- Some find it a bit bulky for serious backcountry use
Why you should buy this women’s ski jacket
Every part of this jacket can protect you from the harsh weather and keep you comfortable at the same time. Also, it looks rather stylish too.
2. NorthFace Thermoball Eco Snow Triclimate- Best Eco-Friendly
Keep yourself dry and most comfortable while skiing with this versatile insulated ski jacket.
The North Face Thermoball can keep you dry and comfortable for all of your winter activities. It boasts of eco insulation that repels water and keeps users dry while they are on the hills. It’s also quite versatile and you’ll find it fitting for an array of activities. It’s suitable for skiing and snowboarding. Or pretty much anywhere where you need to stay warm and dry. And It can also be worn as an outer shell.
The Thermoball eco snow triclimate has an integrated powder skirt that can keep cold air out while you’re skiing. It also prevents snow from entering the jacket.
You also have an option to use it with the insulated jacket or without. Thus, making it a versatile one that’s fit for the colder or slightly warmer season.
You can still use the North face thermoball for skiing in the warmer spring break season.
Features
- Dry vent fabric
- Eco insulation
- Made in the USA
- Durable water repellent finish
- Dry ent shell and underarm vents
- 2 secure-zip hand pockets and a zip chest pocket
- Has zip compatible integration with the North Face garments
Pros
- Versatile
- Lightweight
- Water-resistant
- Eco-friendly synthetic insulation
Cons
- Can be restrictive
Why you should buy the Thermoball Eco Snow Triclimate
This is perfect for skiing. It can keep cold air and snow from entering the jacket. Thus it can keep you dry all the time. And it offers synthetic insulation that’s more eco friendly than down.
3. Arc’teryx Sentinel AR Best for Backcountry Skiing
Arc’teryx Sentinel AR can keep serious skiers dry and comfortable.
The Arc’teryx Sentinel AR is a serious hardshell jacket that will keep you warm, dry, and comfortable for your skiing adventures. It’s quite light and probably the softest out of all the hardshell ski jackets that we have tried.
The design is simple, straightforward, and no fuss. But it can definitely protect you from the harsh elements and keep you dry. The hood is one of our favorite features of the sentinel ar. It’s quite easy to adjust and can give a snug and comfortable fit.
The Sentinel AR does not have insulation, instead, it has a flushed flannel backing. Though it lacks insulation, the breathability of this jacket is impressive. Even if you sweat a lot. It will produce every minimal condensation. Thus, it can keep you warm and dry.
Moreover, it’s not restrictive and you’ll feel comfortable with its relaxed cut.
Features
- Has an integrated powder skirt
- Gore-Tex membrane
- Helmet-compatible hood
- Fully sealed seams and watertight zippers
- Has Underarm vents
- Relaxed cut
- Brushed flannel lining
Pros
- Soft hardshell jacket
- Highly breathable
- Keeps you dry
Cons
- Lacks insulation
Why you should buy the Arc’teryx Sentinel AR
The Arc’teryx Sentinel AR jacket is the most comfortable and breathable hardshell ski jacket.
4. Patagonia Snowbelle 3 in 1- Best Innovative
The Patagonia Snowbelle 3 in 1 ski jacket is quite versatile and has one of the more advanced features.
This Patagonia jacket can be worn for skiing, as an outer shell, for light insulation, and as a waterproof jacket. You can also use the Snowbelle of 3 in 1 jacket for slightly warmer weather. And if you need more insulation, you can add layers of warm clothing inside.
In addition, this Snowbelle 3 in 1 jacket is equipped with several features that can keep you dry and comfortable. It has a polyester lining, a waterproof zipper, and pit zips.
It’s highly breathable and it’s also water repellant so it can keep you dry all the time. And our favorite feature is what makes it stand out. It’s equipped with some of the latest innovations. It boasts of an Embedded RECCO® reflector that amplifies the signals for RECCO detectors. This latest innovation comes in very handy for rescue and search operations.
Features
- Reversible liner
- Zip-out jacket with 60g Thermogreen® insulation
- Embedded RECCO® reflector
- Water repellent coating
- Lots of pockets
- Waterproof zipper
- Removable helmet lining
- 2-way adjustable hood
- Pit zips
- Polyester lining
Pros
- Has innovative features
- Water repellant
- Cozy and comfortable fit
- Highly breathable
Cons
- Powder skirt sold separately
Why you should buy this Snowbelle 3 in 1 jacket
This Patagonia jacket is highly versatile and equipped with advanced features that are very handy during search and rescue operations.
5. Columbia Whirlibird IV- Best Budget Option
The Whirlibird IV integrated jacket is an affordable 3 in 1 jacket.
It’s decently warm, can be used with or without layers and it’s quite inexpensive.
Though the style is pretty simple, this Whirlibird IV fits right into your budget. For an inexpensive price, you can enjoy a decent jacket you can use for a variety of cold conditions. Layer it up on more chilly nights or remove the layers when skiing in the spring.
Features
- Matte face windbreaker
- Zipper closure
- Average length pit zips
- 2 fleece hand warmer pockets, a large external chest pocket, a sleeve pass pocket
- Adjustable hood and powder skirt
- Drawstring hem and cuff closure
- Fleece chin guard to protect skin from the outer shell
- OMNI-HEAT AND OMNI-TECH
Pros
- Affordable price
- Versatile
- Decently comfortable
Cons
- Hood isn’t helmet compatible
Why you should buy this women’s ski jacket
It’s an affordable and versatile jacket.
6. Outdoor Research Skyward II- Best Backcountry Ski Jacket
The Skyward II is a hardshell jacket that’s comfortable and soft at the same time.
Thigh Hardshell offers impressive warmth for the skier, but they can also be uncomfortable. And this is where this Outdoor Research women’s ski jacket excels. It’s durable and warm like other hardshell jackets, but it’s also soft and comfortable.
In addition, it can withstand harsh weather conditions. It uses a different material for its membrane. The AscentShell membrane also performs well in keeping you dry and warm. And it’s rather more affordable. And it’s even more breathable than the more common gore-tex membrane.
It’s durable too. And despite the sturdy and warm material, it offers more mobility. That’s why a lot of backcountry skiers will find this rather convenient.
Features
- 3 layers
- 88% nylon 12% spandex 50D stretch plain weave face with 100% polyester 50D knit backer
- Ascent Shell waterproofing membrane DWR coating
- Waterproof zippers
- Velcro cuff seals
Pros
- Allows more mobility
- breathable
- versatile
- Affordable
Cons
- Does not have insulation
Why you should buy this women’s ski jacket
It’s a soft and comfortable hardshell jacket that offers more mobility.
7. Helly Hansen Sundance- Best Casual
It’s lightweight, casual, and is ideal to be worn as a sports jacket.
Made from 100 polyester material, this lightweight jacket is ideal for use in the gym and as a windbreaker. The jacket boasts of a high collar and fixed hood. It also has a slightly cut waist for better mobility
It’s also soft and comfortable. And albeit with the lightweight material, it can keep you warm in the outdoors. Moreover. It’s equipped with a recco advanced rescue system. So it comes in very handy during emergencies. So if a skier gets lost or gets trapped in valance, it will be easier to find him.
Features
- 100 % polyester
- fully seamed seal
- Snowskirt
- Small ski pocket
- PrimaLoft Black insulation
- RECCO advanced rescue system
- Waterproof and windproof
- 2 ply fabric construction
- 2-way mechanical stretch
Pros
- Breathable
- Lightweight
- Versatile
- Allows for more mobility
- Has a RECCO rescue system
Cons
- Some may not like the style
Why should you buy this women’s ski jacket
It’s a lightweight and versatile design that can be worn outdoors or in the gym.
8. RAB XENON – Best Insulated
This highly insulated jacket is eco friendly too.
Made from synthetic insinuation and 100 percent recycled polyester, mother nature will be happy too. It’s highly insulated and can keep you warm even in harsh weather conditions.
Moreover, it;’s lightweight and does not feel bulky. So it will also allow for more mobility. Thus, you can be more comfortable. It’s durable and made with ripstop fabric. So even if you got stuck in a tree or fall, it won’t rip.
It can also protect the skier from the harsh winds. So it’s a fitting jacket to wear for backpacking in Patagonia.
Features
- 100 percent recycled polyester
- 2-way opening
- helmet hood with stretch binding
- insulated internal zip baffle and chin guard
- 2 handwarmer pockets with zipper closure and a stuff sack
Pros
- Highly insulated
- No cold spots
- Lightweight
- Affordable
Cons
- Not that breathable
Why you should buy this insulated jacket
Out of all the synthetic insulated jackets, this offers the best insulation for a skier. And at a decent price, you have a decent and reliable jacket for your backpacking trips in Patagonia.
9. Patagonia insulated Snow Belle- Best for Cooler Temperatures
It’s packed with nifty features that’ll keep you toasty and warm in the winter
This Patagonia snow belle ski jacket is king when it comes to keeping you warm in very cold weather. This insulated jacket can give skiers optimum protection during inbound skiing. It can also give protection from harsh winds.
Moreover, it also comes with a powder skirt that you can easily pair with any Patagonia ski pants.
This Patagonia jacket has pit zips that offer sufficient ventilation in cold weather. But this is not advisable to wear for activities where you’ll be doing a lot of hiking. it can get too warm and may lack breathability for those types of activities. Though you can rely on this Patagonia jacket to keep you warm and comfortable in frigid cold weather.
Features
- Insulated
- Pit zips
- Helmet-compatible hood
- laminated visor, zippered vents at your armpits, and fleece panels at the neck and chin
- internal drop-in pocket
- Removable Powder skirt
Pros
- Excellent insulation
- Can keep you warm in very cold weather
- Has nifty features
Cons
- May lack breathability
Why you should buy this Patagonia ski jacket
If you need a ski jacket that can offer warmth and protection from the rain and harsh winds, this is the best option.
10. The North Face Arrowood Triclimate – Best Overall
This affordable and versatile ski jacket that’s perfect for mildly cold weather.
The north face arrow triclimate can offer great protection from the cold, wet, and sleet. Albeit it’s a lightweight material, it can provide warmth in a mild climate area. It’s also waterproof so you don’t have to worry about cold creeping through your jacket.
This jacket is also quite versatile. You can remove the outer shell from the lining and pair it up with other gear and North Face pieces. It’s a bang for your buck since you can wear it in more ways than one.
It also has a rather nice fit that you’d think it’s customized. That makes up for a more fashionable look.
Features
- 100 % polyester
- smooth-face fleece liner
- Dry vent shell
- Waterproof with a DWR finish
- secure-zip pocket at the chest and two zip hand pockets
Pros
- Versatile
- Affordable
- Form-fitting
Cons
- Thin insulation
Why you should buy this North Face jacket
It’s a versatile jacket for mildly cold weather. You can also wear it in more ways than one.
Honorable Mentions
And these brands also caught our eye. These jackets can also tick the boxes on your list.
1. Flylow Billy Coat
This is a rugged jacket perfect for freerides. It’s also ideal for resort skiing since it’s equipped with a pass pocket that’ll help you hover through the lift line.
It’s lightweight and offers great breathability. Moreover, it has a removable powder skirt. Flylow Billy Coat is one of the less renowned brands. But it still has a nice slim fit and it can sure suffice your needs. the downside? It has a rather rough outer shell covering. Other users complained of a stiffer fabric feel. If you don’t mind the mentioned gripes, this jacket can be ideal for you.
2. Norrona Lofoten Pro
This non-insulated ski jacket is lightweight and breathable. It also has impressive weatherproofing characteristics. You also have the option to get more or less ventilation with the mesh-lined ventilation system along the front.
This is also an unknown brand but It has some nifty features. However, it’s not really warm. So you’ll find this jacket suitable for you if you are in a mildly cold region.
What to Look for When Buying the Best Women’s Ski Jackets
You have an array of ski jackets to choose from. And each one can look as promising as the other. So how can you pick the right one for you?
Keep scrolling to find out.
1. Style
The style could be the least factor that you will be worried about. But if you’re going to sashay away on the slope, might as well wear something that looks good on you.
There are tons of styles to choose from. There are ski jackets that offer a minimalistic mono blocked style. And some brands have more of a fashionable; two-tone color. And if you want a ski jacket that has a more casual look, you can also find that one on our list
Some ski jackets can be worn with layers. And others have more pockets than the competition. You should also consider these components when choosing the style of the jacket.
2. Fit and Comfort
Ski jackets should neither be too loose nor too snug. It has to be fit enough but also offers a decent amount of movement. Anything too restricting will not be comfortable. And anything too loose will not be able to give you the needed warmth and support.
Ski jackets that have a softer inner lining will also make you more comfortable.
3. Price
Professional skiers who habitually go to the mountains every season can opt to buy a more expensive and high-quality one that can last them through the seasons. And beginners, on the other hand, should buy a more affordable ski jacket first. We have budget-friendly options that can also provide you with the needed warmth and comfort.
4. Weatherproofing
Either you’re looking for a ski or snowboard jacket, this is crucial. A weatherproof ski jacket will protect your body from the cold, rain, wind, snow, and moisture. Weatherproofing materials must be used in the jacket’s outer shell as well as the inner membrane. It’s also a plus if the ski jacket is windproof since skiing will cause a burst of air.
There are three popular outer shell materials used for these jackets. And these are gore-tex, nylon, and polyurethane. These are often synthetic wax materials that can keep cold air out.
The construction of the jacket also affects how weatherproof it is. Some designs have a cinch at the wrists and wrist gaiters that can keep cold air out. So you can look out for that one too. Some have an additional layer of fabric around the waist that can also keep you comfortable and warm. This also protects you from cold should you fall into the snow. It should also have a helmet that can be tightened.
You may also like: Best Womens Ski Goggles
5. Warmth
Weatherproofing and warmth are two of the most important features you have to consider. Skiing involves being subjected to the frigid cold temperature outside. So it’s crucial to have your entire body warm. And ski jackets use several insulation materials. Some of these are fleece, wool or merino wool, Thinsulate, or PrimaLoft.
The location and activity should also influence your choice of ski jackets. If you are resort skiing, you need an insulated jacket.
But remember that not all ski jackets have insulation. These types of ski jackets are suitable for skiing in the warmer spring season. So if you’re going to the mountains in the winter, you need a skiing jacket that has thicker insulation.
6. Breathability
A non-breathable jacket will hold in sweat and moisture. And you will be bathing in your own sweat. Thus, the need for jackets with a more breathable material. It will wick moisture and allow the flow of air freely. Thus, making you feel more comfortable.
What Brand of Ski Jackets are the Best
Which brand is the best? Well, it’s hard to tell as each brand comes with its own bells and whistles.
We will be listing down popular and reliable ski jacket and ski apparel brands. Skiing gear and apparel can rather be expensive. Likewise, we’ll be listing both affordable and high-end brands. Both of which can serve your needs and circumstances.
- Columbia (Portland, Oregon)
Columbia started as a hat manufacturer and evolved eventually into a sports clothing brand.
This brand offers a wide range of affordable ski apparel. But what we loved most about it is despite the budget-friendly price, the designs came with nice features. The downside, however, is that if we compare it to other popular brands, the quality is not as premium.
For instance, some of the band’s ski jackets aren’t as breathable compared to more premium brands like Arc’teryx and Patagonia. But this brand is still popular in regions where ski season is shorter. It’s because not everyone needs a jacket with more technical features and better waterproof. If affordable gear would suffice your needs, why not?
- Patagonia (Ventura,California)
Patagonia boasts of premium and high-quality sportswear and ski apparel. But what makes it outstanding is that the brand has a huge sense of social responsibility. Patagonia is perhaps the green option. And consequently, its founder is now an environmentalist. The company even has a repair service at select locations or in the mail. Thereby, cutting down on waste.
This brand costs slightly lower than the more expensive Arc’teryx, but it’s still a premium brand.
- Arc’teryx (Vancouver, Canada)
This is probably the more expensive brand of skiing apparel today. Sk jacket from Arc’teryx boasts of premium design, and may perhaps have all the bells and whistles. It’s on everyone’s bucket list. However, you really have to shell out a lot of moolah because this brand doesn’t offer any budget-friendly options.
But if it’s quality you’re looking for, you can’t go wrong with this brand.
- Helly Hansen (Oslo, Norway)
The brand had its beginning with making waterproof apparel for seafarers. And since then it ventured into manufacturing skiing apparel and sportswear. Helly Hansen ski jackets are a combination of comfort, warmth, and movement. The brand is also known for its clean and styles and high-quality designs.
However, if you’re looking for ski jackets that are specific for freerides and touring, you won’t find any.
- Outdoor Research (Seattle, Washington)
Outdoor Research can offer more value for your money among their performance designs. Outdoor Research’s more popular designs combine an impressive performance and an affordable price. However, in terms of the finishing and the fit, it’s not as streamlined and seamless as the premium brands we have listed above.
- North Face (Alameda, California)
North Face is what we can say as a household name when it comes to ski apparel. This brand offers a wide range of designs so you have a lot of options. However, some of the designs may have a cheaper feeling when compared to the rest of the brands that we have listed.
What’s the Difference Between Ski Jackets and Normal Jackets
A normal jacket is meant to provide warmth during the cold weather. A ski jacket, on the other hand, is specifically designed for skiing. As the name implies, it is meant to be used for specific sports or activities.
Let’s dabble more on what differentiates them.
- Skiing is a sport that focuses on agility and speed. Hence, ski jackets should allow the person to be able to move freely. Thus, in addition to the warmth that the jacket provides, it should not be too restrictive.
- Ski jackets are weatherproof and waterproof jackets. They are made from materials that are resistant to the tough and harsh conditions outside. Regular jackets, on the other hand, may not be weather resistant as most are also used indoors.
- Ski jackets should have a balance of insulation and breathability. It should be able to provide enough insulation to protect the wearer from the cold environment outside. But at the same time, it should still be breathable enough. Skiing involves fast and swift movements. So a ski jacket should offer decent ventilation so that the wearer will not feel too hot nor get drenched in sweat.
- Ski jackets must have a snug fit, not too tight nor too loose. This is to allow the wearer to move fast. While it doesn’t really matter much if your winter jacket is too loose or too tight. It won’t affect the ability of the jacket to provide warmth.
- Ski jackets have several advanced features that skiers will find very convenient. Features like the RECCO alarm and waterproof zippers aren’t really necessary in a normal jacket. But it will add more value to a ski jacket.
Conclusion
The best women’s ski jackets should be able to provide you warmth, comfort, and movement. It should also protect your body from moisture and sweat. These gears and apparels are indeed expensive. But don’t worry, we also have affordable options that also work well.